Limavady primary schools receive buddy benches

Every primary school in Limavady now has a special place for students to sit if they feel lonely, or need a friend to play with.

Tesco Limavady and the Mens’ Shed, Ballykelly, came together at Central PS in Limavady to hand over a ‘Buddy Bench’ to every primary school in Limavady.

Members of the Mens' Shed, Ballykelly, at the handover.

A buddy bench is for a child to sit on if they’re feeling lonely, sad or just need a friend to play with.

Alderman William King, Causeway Coast and Glens, showed his support while Sam Synott and Judith Ashton from Buddy Bench Ireland to attend the recent handover at Central PS. and to deliver a talk to the children about the purpose of the benches.

Mag’s Connolly from Tesco, Limavady, said: “When I first came across the idea, I thought it was just fantastic, and thought it would be brilliant if we could get a buddy bench in every primary school in Limavady.

“I approached the Mens’ Shed in Ballykelly with the idea and they were keen to get involved. Tesco’s supplied the wood and paint, and the Mens’ Shed, Ballykelly, built each bench.”

Ms Connolly said it was lovely to see all the pupils in their uniforms coming together to take delivery of their new bench.

She said it showed “a real sense of community”.

“I hope the benches help some child who is maybe being bullied or having a bad day at home or in school,” added Ms Connolly.

If any one would like to get in touch, or would like to know more about the initiative, they can get in touch with Buddy Bench Ireland on Facebook or by contacting Mags Connolly at Tesco Limavady.